Postdoctoral Research Associate – Plant‑Microbe Interactions

About the role

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will lead independent and collaborative research on plant‑microbe interactions, focusing on extracellular vesicle (EV)‑mediated communication. The work aims to uncover how biotic and abiotic signals control EV biogenesis, cargo selection, and functional outcomes in plant health and stress responses.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to study how microbial and abiotic cues regulate plant EV formation, secretion, and cargo loading.
• Isolate and characterize EVs, analyzing their RNA, protein, and other molecular contents.
• Apply genetic, molecular, biochemical, microbiological, and imaging techniques to investigate plant‑pathogen and plant‑microbiome interactions.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, analyze data, and contribute to manuscripts, reports, and grant proposals.
• Support laboratory organization, safety, and regulatory compliance; mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers.

Required profile

• PhD in plant molecular biology, plant pathology, microbiology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated research experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

Required skills

• Molecular biology techniques
• Biochemistry methods
• Microbiological assays
• Genetic manipulation
• Imaging and microscopy
• RNA and protein analysis

What we offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications
• Health, dental, vision, life and long‑term disability insurance (AgriLife contributes to premiums)
• 12–15 paid holidays, sick leave and vacation time
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Professional development through Aspire, LinkedIn Learning, and internal programs